Synonyms

pessimistic

American

[pes-uh-mis-tik] / ˌpɛs əˈmɪs tɪk /

adjective

pertaining to or characterized by pessimism or the tendency to expect only bad outcomes; gloomy; joyless; unhopeful.

His pessimistic outlook kept him from applying for jobs for which he was perfectly qualified.

Synonyms:

hopeless, despairing

Related Words

See cynical.

Other Word Forms

nonpessimistic adjective
nonpessimistically adverb
overpessimistic adjective
overpessimistically adverb
pessimistically adverb
unpessimistic adjective
unpessimistically adverb

Etymology

Origin of pessimistic

First recorded in 1865–70; pessimist + -ic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even those who are happy with their own personal finances are often pessimistic about the broader economy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Mayer was pessimistic about the Shields fight happening, pointing to the weight as an issue.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

One-third of Americans are somewhat or extremely pessimistic about the potential impact of AI on their careers.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

On Monday, European Commission data showed businesses and consumers across the 21-nation currency area felt more pessimistic about their prospects.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

But Winnie is a determined person, and I suspect my pessimistic reaction only strengthened her resolve.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023